A Liver Named
Tim, Charliand Yasmyne in July 2025, two years after Charli's liver transplant
A Liver Named Axie: Charli's Fight for a Future
Charli was born on April 27, 2013. She lives with her parents in northwestern Ontario. In July 2023, everything changed for the family.
Charli
TRANSPLANT NEEDED: LIVER
HOME: SIOUX LOOKOUT, ON
While enjoying a BBQ on their deck, her parents noticed a slight yellow tinge in the corner of Charli’s eyes. Around the same time, Charli mentioned that she hadn’t had a bowel movement for four or five days and that her urine looked like dark tea. Before that evening, her mom had also noticed something unusual, Charli had been taking naps in the afternoons, something she rarely did unless she was unwell.
Concerned, her parents rushed her to the emergency room.
At first, the ER doctor suggested it might be a virus. But when Charli’s parents asked about the yellowish colour in her eyes, the doctor decided to run more tests.
Charli’s condition progressed quickly. She was listed for a liver transplant at SickKids in Toronto on July 18, 2023. They had hoped Charli’s mom might be able to be a living donor, but unfortunately that was not possible. So the wait began for a liver offer. As the situation became more serious, there was increased attention from medical staff, sleepless nights, and growing frustration as uncertainty surrounded her condition.
CONTINUES ON PAGE 4 SPRING 2026 | VOLUME 49
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Returning to Where It All Began: Celebrating 40 Years
Message from the Chairman
Traditionally, springtime has always been a time for new beginnings, but in these coming months I have spent a lot of time reflecting on the David Foster Foundation’s journey. Through the entire team’s compassion, dedication, and hard work, the foundation has been able to successfully deliver my heartfelt mission to provide financial support for families with children undergoing their organ transplant journey. This spring is a time to appreciate and reflect on how far the foundation has come over the past 40 years and how incredibly generous our donors have been as they continue to help our families
Given this milestone year, I am thrilled to announce the 40th anniversary of the David Foster Foundation, which
is cause for celebration! August 7th and 8th we will be returning to where it all began, Victoria, British Columbia, for an unforgettable night of music, appreciation and celebration of the past 40 life-changing years!
I am tremendously thankful to our staff and board of directors at the foundation, as well as to our donors, partners, volunteers, and families that have inspired and supported our success for the past four decades.
As we look into the future, we remain committed to expanding our impact. We are dedicated to reach more families, providing greater support, and continue to make meaningful differences in the lives of the families we have supported throughout their transplant journey.
A Season of Renewal and Hope
Message from the Chief Executive Officer
As we transition into the arrival of spring, I look forward to seeing the flowers blossoming and the trees budding with beautiful spring colours, this is a wonderful time of year that reminds us of the season’s spirit of renewal.
This idea reflects our mission at the David Foster Foundation. One of renewed sense of hope, a new beginning, a second chance, a time to celebrate the progress that we have made, and the profound impact we have had on families across Canada.
It is especially fitting that April is Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness month. This month we want to raise awareness around
I sincerely thank every member of the community that has supported us throughout the past 40 years. As we look back at four decades of hope, healing and heartfelt support, we know we have made a difference and will continue to be there when a family needs us most!
With heartfelt appreciation,
David Foster, OC, OBC
Founder and Chairman
David Foster Foundation
the need for organ donors, as well as the need for financial support for families navigating their organ transplant journey.
By raising awareness and providing a better education around organ and tissue donation, together we can help create more second chances and brighter futures for the many children that need our support.
This spring is especially meaningful as the foundation is celebrating our 40th anniversary!
We look forward to gathering in Victoria in August to honour four decades of impact and change that the Foundation has provided so many children and their families.
It will be a moment to look back at how far we’ve come, and in turn renew our dedication to the families we have been able to serve.
With sincere appreciation,
HCol Michael Ravenhill Chief Executive Officer David Foster Foundation
Honorary Colonel
Canadian Armed Forces
410 Tactical Fighter Squadron
Even if you are unable to join us, you can join us!
Message from SVP, Fund Development
As many of you may know, the David Foster Foundation will celebrate its 40th Anniversary in Victoria on August 7–8, 2026. We are coming home to where it all began. Our very first fundraising event was a Celebrity Softball Game in Victoria in 1987, so the return to Victoria is a full circle moment.
This will be our final feature fundraising celebration, and we would be truly delighted if you would consider joining us through your attendance or through a donation. It promises to be a memorable and meaningful event.
If you are unable to attend, you can still join us in the most meaningful way —by supporting the families we serve. The essence of philanthropy is not the amount one gives, but the act of giving itself. The act coincides with the need.
Last year alone, the David Foster Foundation received 973 requests for support, representing a staggering 76% increase from the previous year.
In 2025, there was a 48% increase in actual funding compared to 2024, and most significantly, our funding to families is at the highest level ever.
In 2026 Foundation received:
• 973 requests for support, representing 76% increase from 2026
• 48% increase in funding compared to 2024— the highest level ever.
The Gift of Organ Donation
Message from Director of Family Relations
April marks Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month, a time to recognize the extraordinary generosity of organ donors and their families, and the lives made possible because of that gift.
In my role as Director of Family Relations, I work closely with families whose children are waiting for, or recovering from, life-saving organ transplants. Each journey is unique, but they are all shaped by resilience, hope, and the incredible strength of parents advocating for their children.
In this edition of our newsletter, you’ll read about Charli and her family, who noticed something was wrong during a summer evening at home when they saw a slight yellow tinge in the corner of her eyes. Within days, Charli was
at SickKids facing the reality of a life-saving liver transplant.
Like many families we support, they faced hospital visits, uncertainty, and financial strain while focusing entirely on their child’s survival.
Today, Charli is thriving. At her first annual checkup, her new liver was functioning better than most, and her and her family were able to go to the Philippines just shy of a year post-transplant.
Across Canada, more than 4,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving transplant, yet only 32% of Canadians are registered organ donors, despite overwhelming public support.
This month is an opportunity to reflect on the power of donation. One decision
To fully appreciate the impact of each donation, I encourage you to visit our website and hear directly from the families whose lives have been touched by this support. Their stories say far more than we ever could.
On behalf of the families we support, from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island, we hope you will consider joining us in Victoria this August for the David Foster Foundation 40th Anniversary Celebration, or supporting the event through a donation.
With gratitude, John Danson SVP, Fund Development David Foster Foundation
How to make a donation to the Foundation:
1. Mail your cheques to David Foster Foundation, 212 Henry Street, Victoria BC V9A 3H9
2. Please call 1-877-777-7675
3. Online through PayPal at davidfosterfoundation.com
4. Electronic funds transfer— please email info@davidfosterfoundation.com
has the potential to save lives and give families hope for the future.
Thank you for helping us support families on this journey.
With gratitude
Aleea Dahinden Director of Family Relations David Foster Foundation
Below: In the recovery room, surrounded by her favorite plushies— her little source of comfort.
For Charli’s parents, the experience was incredibly emotional. Before the transplant, there were no assurances about what would happen. Around Charli, they stayed hopeful and strong. But privately, they wrestled with many questions. They wondered what they might have done wrong, whether anything could have been avoided, or if there was something they could have done differently. Yasmyne still carries powerful memories from this time, “as a mother, a part of my heart still aches. The memories of those difficult days remain with me, and the emotions are just as raw. I guess some pain never fully fades, it simply becomes a part of who we are.”
On July 27th, the family was informed there was a liver available for Charli. Surgery lasted eleven hours. Before the operation, she had to fast for fifteen hours without food or water. After the surgery, she was unable to eat or drink for nearly seventy-two hours. During that time, she longed for anything she could have. Her parents recall how heartbreaking it was to see her begging for something to eat or drink while they had to wait for the doctors to give permission.
When she was finally allowed a small bite, she was given a tiny freezie and a limited portion of Cheerios. Later, when she was able to eat a full meal again, she was the happiest girl in the world and asked for ramen and pork buns, a simple moment that reminded everyone of her strength and resilience.
During her time in the hospital, Charli found joy in small moments. One of her favourite places at SickKids was the Samsung Space, where she could escape into video games, make colourful slime, play a few notes on the piano, and enjoy ice cream from the hospital food court. Her friends also surrounded her with love and support, video-calling, sending messages, and arranging care packages.
When Charli learned that she had received a new liver and was no longer so sick, it brought one of the biggest smiles her parents remember seeing in the hospital. She even gave her new liver a nickname: “Axie".
Throughout the entire experience, the family remained together.
Financially, the transplant also had an impact. As working parents, they had been worried about their jobs, housing, and bills. Yasmyne and Tim share, “the Foundation’s generosity was overwhelming, and such a stress release. They took care of our family in every sense of the word. It allowed our only focus to be on Charli.”
Today, Charli has made incredible strides in her recovery. Charli continues to take anti-rejection medication for the rest of her life and attends checkups every six months to a year so doctors can monitor her health closely.
Above: Charli's first “liversary” in 2024. The family celebrated in Winnipeg where Charli was gifted a liversary shirt from a dear friend, and spent the day with family, enjoying the moment, having fun, and eating at their favorite restaurants.
Enjoying a beautiful day at the town beach in Sioux
Below: Charli was medically cleared to travel, so in the fall of 2024, the family went to the Philippines. Charli is standing in-front of an active volcano.
the Foundation's generosity was overwhelming, and such a stress release. They took care of our family in every sense of the word. It allowed our only focus to be on Charli.
Outside of medical appointments, Charli enjoys drawing, playing the piano, spending time with her best friends, and ramen is still one of her favourite foods.
Looking ahead, Charli has big dreams. She has said she would like to join the Canadian Forces, become a doctor, or work as a graphic artist or animator one day.
For her family, the transplant journey has changed how they see life. “Every day is a gift, and without the unwavering generosity of these kind-hearted donors, we would not have the chance to live a life filled with meaning, hope, and extraordinary moments.”
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Above:
Lookout, wearing DFF glasses.
The David Foster Foundation is
In August 2026, the David Foster Foundation will celebrate a remarkable milestone—40 years of supporting Canadian families whose children need lifesaving organ transplants. To mark this special anniversary, the Foundation will host an unforgettable weekend of music, celebration, and community in Victoria, British Columbia, the place where the Foundation’s story began.
The celebration begins on Friday, August 7, with a spectacular gala evening at the iconic Fairmont Empress. Guests will walk a glittering red carpet alongside celebrity supporters, community leaders, and longtime friends of the Foundation before entering an evening of world-class entertainment, celebration, and storytelling.
Over the years, the Foundation’s events have featured extraordinary performances from artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Sarah McLachlan, Steven Tyler, Céline Dion, Josh Groban, Stevie Wonder, Michael Bublé, and Reba McEntire. For the 40th anniversary celebration, several celebrated performers have already been confirmed, with more exciting announcements—and a few signature David Foster surprises—still to come. 1 2 3
1. David Foster and his mother, Eleanor. 2. Daivd Foster and the late Gordon Lightfoot. 3. Organ transplant
4. David nose to nose with liver transplant recipient, Lily Hague. 5. Wayne Gretsky, David Foster, Rob Lowe 6. David Foster and Former Prime Minister of Canada Brian Mulroney performing at a David Foster Foundation
Photo credit: Suzanne Teresa
Celebrating 40 Years of Impact
Following the gala, the celebration continues with the Foundation’s legendary after-party in the Fairmont Empress Crystal Ballroom, where guests will enjoy live music, dancing, interactive food stations, and curated cocktails late into the evening.
On Saturday, August 8, Victoria’s breathtaking Inner Harbour will transform into an extraordinary open-air concert venue as David Foster & Friends take the stage. With exclusive VIP seating and a stunning waterfront setting, weekend package guests will experience an unforgettable evening of music, artistry, and celebration. The harbour itself will come alive as people gather along the waterfront to watch and listen from around the Inner Harbour, creating a vibrant, city-wide celebration of music.
This milestone weekend will honour four decades of generosity, music, and hope— and the thousands of families across Canada whose transplant journeys have been supported by the Foundation.
Jamie and Kara with David Foster in 1994.
and Allan Thicke.
For many children, the months and years following transplant are about rebuilding strength, rediscovering confidence, and getting back to the activities that make childhood joyful. Sports, recreation, and community programs can play a powerful role in that recovery, helping kids reconnect with their peers, stay active, and simply enjoy being kids again.
That’s why we’re excited to share a new partnership with the Simon Keith Foundation, focused on helping pediatric transplant recipients across Canada return to active, healthy lives. Through this partnership, children who have received life-saving organ transplants can access funding to participate in sports, fitness, recreational, and cultural activities. Whether it’s hockey, golf, dance, martial arts, or a local recreation program, the goal is simple: to help kids move, connect, and thrive after transplant.
Families are referred through the David Foster Foundation as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting children not only through transplant, but in the years that follow.
Simon Keith Partnership Announcement Helping Kids Thrive After Transplant
Khai’s Story
Khai’s journey is a powerful example of what life after transplant can look like. Diagnosed before birth with gastroschisis, Khai spent months in intensive care before later developing unexplained end-stage liver failure. In October 2018, he was listed for a rare multi-visceral transplant and received a perfect donor match less than 12 hours later.
During this incredibly challenging time, the David Foster Foundation supported Khai’s family as they navigated the realities of pediatric transplant. Today, Khai is thriving. He participates in Taekwondo, baseball, soccer, and golf, an active childhood made possible by the generosity of organ donors, the dedication of his medical team, and the resilience of his family. Stories like Khai’s are why partnerships like this matter. Returning to sports and activities helps transplant recipients rebuild strength, confidence, and a sense of normalcy after transplant.
The Simon Keith Foundation was founded by former professional athlete and heart transplant recipient Simon Keith, whose own transplant journey inspired him to help others live active, healthy lives after transplant. Together, our two organizations share a common goal: ensuring that children who survive transplant have every opportunity not just to live, but to truly thrive.
Top: Multivisceral transplant recipient, Khai and his mother, Julia.
Right: Khai on the golf course after being fitted for new clubs made possible through a grant from the Simon Keith Foundation.
Board Spotlight: Gail Stephens
Gail Stephens first became connected to the David Foster Foundation during her time as City Manager for the City of Victoria. At the time, City Council voted to name the waterfront David Foster Way in celebration of the Foundation’s 25th anniversary. The recognition came after Michael Bublé approached the City to find a meaningful way to honour David Foster in his hometown for the extraordinary work of the Foundation.
A few years later, Gail joined the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “I strongly believe in the Foundation’s mission,” she says. “It is a very tangible and moving cause and I was inspired by David’s vision, dedication, and passion.”
As the Foundation approaches its 40th anniversary, Gail reflects on several aspects of its work that she finds particularly meaningful. Over the years, the organization has grown from a small, BC-focused charity into a national foundation supporting families across all
Canadian provinces and territories. She also points to the powerful role David Foster’s reputation has played in raising awareness for organ donation across Canada. Gail has also been deeply impressed by the Foundation’s personal, hands-on approach. Staff work closely with families throughout their transplant journey, often building relationships that last well beyond the transplant itself.
One moment that has stayed with her was meeting Bella Thompson at the A Night on Broadway gala in Toronto in 2022 while Bella was awaiting a bowel transplant. When the music began, Bella started dancing enthusiastically and quickly captured the attention of the room. She was invited on stage, where she won the hearts of the entire audience.
Outside of her work with the Foundation, Gail enjoys spending time with her grandsons and watching her two sons become wonderful fathers. She also enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes—though she laughs that not all of them are successes—and values laughter, kindness, and time spent with family and friends.
The Foundation Appoints New
Public Relations Agency:
We’re excited to welcome MILK Creative Communications as the new public relations and social media agency for the David Foster Foundation. Based in Vancouver, MILK is a boutique agency that specializes in supporting national and global brands through strategic communications, media relations, and storytelling that connects with people on a meaningful level. In 2025, MILK was recognized as one of the Best Performing PR Agencies in Canada by PR in Canada, a testament to their creative and results-driven approach.
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Foundation, MILK will help share the stories that matter most. Their work will focus on raising awareness about the importance of organ donation, highlighting the experiences of transplant families, and supporting the Foundation’s
mission to provide financial assistance for non-medical expenses to Canadian families whose children require lifesaving organ transplants.
“Working with the David Foster Foundation is an honor,” says Shannon Heth, CEO of MILK. “We look forward to helping amplify the Foundation’s incredible work, sharing the voices of donors, families, and transplant recipients, and helping communities connect with this life-saving cause.”
MILK’s role as the Foundation’s agency of record (AOR) means they’ll be leading the Foundation’s media relations, communications campaigns, social media, and public messaging. Their support will help us engage more Canadians, educate about the importance of becoming a registered organ donor, and celebrate the incredible impact that organ donation has on families across the country.
Working with the David Foster Foundation is an honor. We look forward to helping amplify the Foundation's incredible work…
Shannon
Heth, CEO of MILK
We are thrilled to partner with MILK Creative Communications as we continue to grow awareness, support families in need, and inspire a culture of giving and life-saving generosity.
Thanks to Our 40th Anniversary Celebration Sponsors!
The David Foster Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration would not be possible without the incredible generosity of our sponsors and partners. Their support helps bring this unforgettable weekend to life while also strengthening the Foundation’s mission to support Canadian families whose children require life-saving organ transplants.
We are deeply grateful for their commitment and proud to recognize the organizations and individuals who are helping make this milestone celebration possible.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
George Vassallo & Christine Cole
LEGACY SPONSOR
Trish Labuda
RED CARPET
The Bhalwani Family Charitable Foundation
Gib-San Pool & Landscape Creations, Ed & Colleen Gibbs
Ann Magee
Joan & Paul Waechter
Deerfields Clinic
Warren Armstrong, GHM Canada
Helen Edwards
Boston Pizza International
The Hillyard Stephen Group
OFFICIAL HARBOUR EVENT SPONSOR
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority
OFFICIAL AIRLINE PARTNER
Air Canada Foundation
Green Shirt Day: Honouring the Gift of Life
Foundation family members wearing green shirts: Mike Ravenhill, John Danson, Aleea Dahinden, Julia Hopewell, and Elissa Parkinson.
Each year on April 7, Canadians come together to recognize Green Shirt Day, a national movement that honours the legacy of Logan Boulet and promotes the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation.
Green Shirt Day began in 2018 following the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash. Logan Boulet, one of the young players who lost his life, had registered as an organ donor just weeks before the accident. His decision saved six lives and inspired tens of thousands of Canadians to register as organ donors in what became known as the “Logan Boulet Effect.”
At the David Foster Foundation, the message of Green Shirt Day resonates deeply. Every day, we work alongside families whose children are waiting for or recovering from life-saving organ transplants, and we see firsthand the profound impact that organ donation has on saving and improving lives.
This year, members of the David Foster Foundation team—including Mike, John, Julia, Aleea, and Elissa—wore green to help raise awareness and honour the incredible generosity of organ donors and their families. By wearing green and encouraging conversations about organ donation, we can continue to spread awareness and help ensure that more families receive the gift of life.
THANKS TO ALL OUR PARTNERS
Life Legacy Members
The Anschutz Foundation
Jim and Sandi Treliving
James Wilson and Vivian Roy
Jim Pattison
Walter and Maria Schneider
Argyros Family Foundation
Joan and Paul Waechter
TELUS
AWIN (Auto World Imports Network)
Paragon
Kyle MacDonald and John Franklin
The Slaight Family Foundation
Newton Glassman Charitable Foundation in Partnership with Catalyst Capital Group
The Waugh Family Foundation
George Vassallo and Christine Cole
Dr. Stacie and Richard Stephenson
Walter Scott Foundation
Haim and Cheryl Saban
Bonnie Buhler
National Partners
Aird & Berlis
ALLVISION
Air Canada Foundation
Purolator
Community Partners
DeerFields Clinic
Boston Pizza International
Tom Lee Music
Staywell Patient Accommodations
GIB-SAN Pool & Landscape Creations
Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour
The Hillyard Stephen Group at RBC Dominion Securities
Only 32% of Canadians have officially registered to become a donor (Canadian Blood
Currently, more than 4,000 Canadians
Approximately 250 people die each year while waiting for a donation (Canadian Institute for Health Information)
Public opinion data shows that 90% of Canadians approve of organ and tissue donation!